Walt Disney streamlines Asian business and names Mahesh Samat as MD, South Asia

The company’s businesses outside of the United States (excluding Theme Parks and ESPN), has announced a new Asia management structureGaurav Laghate | ET Bureau | September 12, 2017, 18:30 IST

(Getty Images)Walt Disney International, a part of The Walt Disney Company, responsible for managing the company’s businesses outside of the United States (excluding Theme Parks and ESPN), has announced a new Asia management structure that will see the creation of North Asia and South Asia regional hubs.

While North Asia will merge Japan, South Korea and Greater China, the South Asia hub merges India with the company’s integrated South East Asian regional markets of Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam.

Mahesh Samat has been named senior VP and managing director at Walt Disney International, South Asia, while Luke Kang will lead North Asia as EVP and managing director.

“Our international leadership teams are tasked to increase Disney brand affinity and awareness in key markets around the world,” said Andy Bird, chairman, Walt Disney International. “This new structure aligns and maximises efficiencies around regions with similar opportunities and creates the momentum to accelerate growth for the Company in these markets.”

With operations in 45 countries throughout the world, Walt Disney International has implemented integrated structures in international markets that have accelerated revenue in China, produced growth across Japan and Europe and provided access to emerging markets throughout Latin America and South East Asia.

“Luke and Mahesh have an acute understanding of our brands and franchises and long-standing expertise in our broader operations. This, combined with their understanding of the uniqueness of their markets, and intense entrepreneurial spirit, will continue the momentum we are experiencing in these dynamic regions,” Bird added.

Samat returned to lead The Walt Disney Company India in November 2016, a position he previously held from 2008-2012. He has more than 25 years of experience in FMCG and Healthcare across India, Asia-Pacific and Europe.

“The South East Asian region is characterised by its dynamic growth and extreme diversity. I am pleased to have the opportunity to lead both teams to create new, innovative ways for audiences to engage with our stories, brands and characters, and drive growth across our businesses,” said Samat.

In his current capacity of Managing Director, The Walt Disney Company Greater China, Kang has led the organisation (excluding Disney’s Parks and Resorts division) to achieve consistent growth across all business segments. In 2016, Disney was the number one foreign studio at the Chinese box office, and the organisation also expanded its reach into new cities and to new consumer groups across China.

“It is an honor to lead Walt Disney International in North Asia, which includes two of the biggest and most dynamic economies in the world. The region’s ever-changing media and entertainment landscape as well as dynamic consumer products market provides incredible opportunity to continue to forge connections with our brands and franchises to drive growth,” said Kang.